Glen of Imaal Terrier
Glen of Imaal Terrier is a gentle, strong, and independent dog breed originating from the valley in Ireland. They were originally bred for fox and badger hunting, but today they are mostly gentle and loving family companions. They are very adaptable dogs that can live in apartments if you provide them with enough activities, although they are more suitable for houses with big yards where they can dig.
These dogs especially love digging. With proper training and socialization, you don't have to worry that you will have any problems with your dog regarding behavior. They are also known as Wicklow Terriers.
Height:
12-14 in (32-36 cm)
Weight:
32-40 lb (14-18 kg)
Origin:
Ireland
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Dog Breed Characteristics
Glen of Imaal Terrier Grooming
Glen of Imaal Terrier dogs has a double coat that is weather resistant. Their coat consists of a rough topcoat and a soft undercoat, and their coat requires regular weekly brushing to keep the amount of hair under control and to avoid forming mats and tangles. Their coat should be stripped two or three times a year and because of that, they shed very little.
They will also need other basic care; brush their teeth at least three times a week. Check their ears for signs of infection and redness, bathe them every 5-6 weeks, and trim their nails if they don’t wear them down naturally.
Exercise
Glen of Imaal Terrier's temperament is happy and energetic. They love being a part of everyday activities and love to be included in all family matters. They are extremely active and hate to be bored. They will follow you around inside the house, and outside they will explore as far and wide as they can.
Glen of Imaal Terrier training and socialization
The Glen of Imaal Terrier training sessions should be fun and interesting. They will not respond well to training that is too repetitive and bores them. They will love outdoor training sessions and if you can keep them interested, these dogs will show great results. One of the best ways to keep your Glen of Imaal Terrier interested in training is to implement reward-based training, with the reward being food or treats. Never use harsh training methods, and don’t use punishment or fear because that can result in an overly shy, or even aggressive dog.
Glen of Imaal Terrier socialization should start as soon as they arrive at your home. They are not the friendliest of breeds and have an ego and confidence of a much bigger dog. Take them to busy parks while they are still young so that your dog can learn proper ways to interact with other dogs and people. Expose them to different situations, sights, and sounds so that they can feel confident in any future situation they may find themselves in.
Socialization can even be done at home. Dress differently; wear glasses, hats, and baggy clothes so your puppy can’t recognize you right away. Teach your puppy to stay alone for a while and not make a fuss about it. It is the best way to make sure your puppy will grow up to be a stable, confident, and well-behaved dog.
Glen of Imaal Terrier and children
Early socialization and proper training can teach them to behave even when children are around. If you train and socialize your dog well, your children will get a great playing partner that has plenty of energy. Glen of Imaal Terriers can play for hours upon hours without getting tired or bored.
Children should never be left alone with any dog, no matter what breed it might be. You should make sure that your children understand how to approach dogs of this breed and that they understand how to properly interact and play with them.
Glen of Imaal Terrier and other pets
Glen of Imaal Terriers can get along well with other dogs and can enjoy their company.
They are not the best fit for other pets. They have a strong prey drive so they will most likely try and catch smaller animals such as gerbils, hamsters, squirrels, or rabbits. If they are properly introduced from puppyhood these dogs will get along with other canines.
Health problems
Glen of Imaal Terrier is prone to some health problems that every owner and future owner should be aware of.
They are prone to:
- Patellar luxation
- Hypothyroidism,
- Von Willebrand's disease
- Progressive retinal atrophy
To be sure that your dog will be healthy, always buy him from a responsible dog breeder who regularly tests their breeding dogs to secure that their puppies will be healthy as well.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Breeders
If this breed is a good fit for you and/or your family, make sure that you find a registered and reputable Glen of Imaal Terrier breeder that can provide you with a great dog that will be physically and mentally healthy. Ask the breeder to show you the health certificates of his breeding dogs and if you can, try and see what the puppy’s parents look like.
Buying a dog from a responsible breeder will cost you more money but you can be sure that you will get a healthy puppy. If you don't have money, we advise you to search for local animal shelters because there is a chance you can find Glen of Imaal Terrier dog in it.
World Dog Finder team
Updated at31.08.2023.
Breed History
Glen of Imaal Terriers was developed for various farm tasks, including badger hunting. They are from Ireland and they got their name from the remote valley in County Wicklow. This dog was recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1933 and by the AKC in 1987.
FUN FACT: Glen of Imaal Terriers are fairly rare dogs today, although they are very good family dogs.
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